beautiful faces done by hand in gofun (white paste made of crushed oyster shells and animal glue). This exhibit focuses on bijin from the early to mid-1700s. These dolls are for display and attracted me with their beautiful faces, carved hair, "attitude" and lush textiles. Some also represent famous characters from history or plays. Over time, the wide variety of ningyo and their deep connection with Japanese culture has kept me fascinated. Japan has perhaps the richest doll culture in the world, including dolls with talismanic functions as well as dolls for display, mechanical dolls and dolls for children to play with. Collecting Japanese dolls is intellectually stimulating, rewarding and addictive!" Vickie Hannig DOLL NEWS * UFDC.ORG 89http://www.UFDC.ORG